A sore throat often accompanies a common cold. It can prevent you from eating, drinking, and even speaking well. This symptom can receive treatment. A trip to the urgent care clinic can target the problem to avoid complications. If you want to find out what common cold sore throat treatments are, here are the details.
The doctor will start by reviewing the medical history and symptoms. The physical exam may include gentle palpation of the lymph nodes. The doctor will listen to the patient’s breathing using a stethoscope. Checking the throat, nasal passages, and ears using a lighted instrument will come next.
Checking for streptococcal bacteria is a priority, even if the sore throat is from a common cold. The doctor will test for strep throat by rubbing a sterile swab on the back of the throat to get a sample of the mucous secretions for the lab. Some laboratories can provide a rapid antigen test in a few minutes. A throat culture can give a result within one to two days.
The doctor may detect streptococcal bacteria through a molecular test. The doctor will take a sample of mucous secretions from the back of the throat using a swab. The lab will test it. Results will come in minutes.
Throat pain often lasts for five to seven days if a common cold is behind it. This condition does not need medical treatment most of the time. A viral cause will not improve by taking antibiotics. Targeting pain and fever will need mild pain relievers. An urgent care clinic can provide the right medication according to age and weight.
An aching throat from a bacterial infection will need antibiotics. Stopping before the standard period of antibiotic treatment can worsen the condition. It can also lead to the spread of infection to other areas of the body. Going to the urgent clinic is important if the patient misses a dose.
Getting enough rest is important for a sore throat. Refraining from speaking and yelling can help relax the throat. Drinking fluids will prevent dehydration and soothe the throat. Warm liquids can help relax the throat muscles. Popsicles can soothe the throat. Gargling with warm salt water can help as well.
Dry air tends to irritate the throat. Humidifying the air can counter the dry air. Sitting in a steamy bathroom or sauna for several minutes can help as well. Avoiding cleaning products, smoke, and dust can prevent throat irritation.
Staying home can help prevent the spread of common cold and sore throat. Alternative medications and herbs can also help with a sore throat and a common cold. Children, pregnant women, and people with comorbidities must look for better common cold solutions. Some of these remedies can interact with prescription medications.
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The doctor will perform thorough tests to see if the sore throat is from a common cold or a bacterial infection. Mild pain relievers and fever reducers can help soothe your sore throat. Proper rest can help speed up your recovery. Seeing an urgent care provider can determine which medications will suit you the most.
Request an appointment or call People First Urgent & Primary Care Germantown at 901-257-3077 for an appointment in our Germantown office.
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